Quantum Mechanics and No-Hidden Variable Theories: Comparing the Bell, Kochen-Specker and Free Will Theorems

Abstract

This thesis explores the exact differences between the two most well-known no-hidden variable theories: the Bell theorem and the Kochen-Specker theorem. Furthermore, it tries to place a newer result called `the free will theorem', as developed by John Conway and Simon Kochen, in this context. To compare the Bell and Kochen-Specker theorems a reformulation of the two theorems by David Mermin will be discussed, which turns out to lead to an even stronger no-hidden variable theory. From the discussion of the free will theorem and the critical reactions it has elicited, it will become clear that the free will theorem is actually very similar to this stronger no-hidden variable theory.